Send us a message!

How does wastewater become a resource for farms, parks, and industry? And who makes it happen?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we shine a spotlight on water operators, the unsung heroes who, in this case, turn wastewater into a valuable resource for parks, farms, and industries.

We are joined by Ben Evans, Lead Operator at South East Water and 2025 WIOA Victorian Operator of the Year. With over 37 years of hands-on experience across regional Victoria, Ben shares how recycled water is produced, why it matters for local communities, and what life is really like behind the scenes at a wastewater treatment plant.

From technical challenges to community impact, this episode celebrates the essential role of operators in regional water resilience.

👷‍♂️ Go behind the scenes of wastewater operations

♻️ Learn how recycled water is safely produced and reused

🌾 Hear why it’s a game-changer for regional communities

This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and the Kulin Nation.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy

Follow us:
👉 LinkedIn
👉 YouTube

Intro/Outro music credit to Leva

Send us a message!

What is really happening with South Australia’s coastal algal bloom, and why does it matter?

Since March 2025, a toxic bloom of Karenia mikimotoi has spread along over 150 km of South Australia’s coastline, killing hundreds of species and upending local fisheries, tourism, and marine ecosystems.

In this episode, ecologist Faith Coleman helps us understand how this bloom came to be: its causes, its consequences, and what coastal communities and science are doing about it.

We explore the role of marine heatwaves, nutrient run-off, and climate patterns and discuss whether this is a one-time event or a spoiler of what is to come.

🔗 Do you want to learn more about this algal bloom?

• Environment SA: https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/news-hub/news/articles/2025/07/sa-harmful-algal-bloom-update
• The Guardian: https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/news-hub/news/articles/2025/07/sa-harmful-algal-bloom-update
• LinkedIn Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cold-enough-yet-faith-coleman-hsezc
• Croakey Health Media: https://www.croakey.org/health-experts-sound-alarm-on-algal-bloom-crisis-calling-for-climate-action-and-comprehensive-responses/
• ABC News: https://www.abc.net.au/btn/classroom/sa-algal-bloom/105583560

This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and Ngarkat Country.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy

Follow us:
👉 LinkedIn
👉 YouTube

Intro/Outro music credit to Leva

Send us a message!

What does it mean to build a career that crosses countries, communities, and causes all related to water?

In this special episode of Our Water Connection, we sit down with Daniel Lambert AM, a leading voice in water innovation, sustainability, and inclusive partnerships. Dan shares how a career in water has taken him to work on projects in over 25 countries, from utilities to humanitarian efforts, from infrastructure to industry partnerships, all with purpose at the centre. We explore how water offers one of the most diverse and meaningful paths in engineering, and why the sector must embrace new ways of thinking to meet the challenges ahead.

From building recycled water projects to shaping models of ethical collaboration in the Pilbara, Dan’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and the power of staying true to your WHY. Whether you're a student, a seasoned professional, or someone curious about water, this episode is full of insights into how engineering can adapt, evolve, and create lasting impact.

This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and Kabi Kabi Country.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy

Follow us:
👉 LinkedIn
👉 YouTube

Intro/Outro music credit to Leva